Slogans & Glossary

Slogans, Sayings and Acronyms Galore

In AA, simple sayings, slogans, and acronyms carry big meaning. Some grew in early meetings, passed from sponsor to sponsee. Others were written in our literature. Each is a tool for recovery, connection, and growth. Explore their roots, learn their history, and keep them close when you need
a reminder, a steady hand, or a gentle push.

90 in 90

Explanation: Attend 90 meetings in 90 days to build strong recovery foundations.
History / Origin: Popular program suggestion for newcomers.
Tip / Use: Schedule daily or frequent meetings early in sobriety.

Act As If

Explanation: Behave as if you are already the person you want to be in sobriety.
History / Origin: Common AA saying, rooted in early step work guidance.
Tip / Use: Practice behaviors of honesty, willingness, and service, even when you don’t feel ready.

Let Go and Let God

Explanation: Surrender control of what cannot be managed; rely on your higher power.
History / Origin: Widely used meditation slogan in AA.
Tip / Use: Repeat during anxious or powerless moments.

One Day At A Time

Explanation: Focus only on today rather than worrying about tomorrow.
History / Origin: Core AA slogan from early Big Book meetings.
Tip / Use: Repeat each morning or when cravings arise.

Easy Does It

Explanation: Approach challenges gently and steadily, without overreacting.
History / Origin: Early AA slogan, emphasized in 12 & 12.
Tip / Use: Slow down, breathe, take one step at a time.

Dry Drunk

Explanation: Describes someone who abstains from alcohol but struggles with resentment, anger, or self-centered thinking.
History / Origin: AA term from oral tradition, used to highlight the difference between physical and emotional sobriety.
Tip / Use: Check your attitudes and emotions regularly, not just your drinking.

H.A.L.T.

Explanation: Hungry. Angry. Lonely. Tired. Focus only on today rather than worrying about tomorrow.
History / Origin: Core AA slogan from early Big Book meetings.
Tip / Use: Repeat each morning or when cravings arise.

If You Don’t Drink, You Won’t Get Drunk

Explanation: A simple but powerful reminder that sobriety starts with the decision not to take the first drink.
History / Origin: Common meeting humor that reinforces a core AA truth.
Tip / Use: Use when overthinking sobriety—sometimes the solution is simple.

First Things First

Explanation: Prioritize sobriety and recovery before ego, drama, or distractions.
History / Origin: Slogan emerging from early AA meeting culture; reinforced in Step work.
Tip / Use: Use when overwhelmed or distracted by non-essential matters.

Faith Without Works Is Dead

Explanation: Spiritual principles alone aren’t enough — action is required for recovery.
History / Origin: Biblical principle cited in AA teaching and Step work.
Tip / Use: Actively participate in steps, service, and meeting life.

Just For Today

Explanation: Focus on today as a manageable unit; avoid trying to solve everything at once.
History / Origin: Popularized through AA meditations and daily reflections.
Tip / Use: Write it on your mirror or phone as a reminder each morning.

This Too Shall Pass

Explanation: Emotions and cravings are temporary; they will move through you.
History / Origin: Ancient proverb adopted widely in AA meetings for encouragement.
Tip / Use: Repeat during moments of craving, stress, fear or anxiety.

Keep Coming Back

Explanation: Persistence is key — continue attending meetings and reaching out.
History / Origin: Traditional AA welcome slogan; first shared in early meetings.
Tip / Use: Say it to yourself or newcomers during rough patches.

Progress Not Perfection

Explanation: Focus on growth rather than beating yourself up over mistakes.
History / Origin: Widely used in AA step work and meetings.
Tip / Use: Reflect on small wins at the end of each day.

Live And Let Live

Explanation: Respect others’ paths; avoid controlling or judging.
History / Origin: AA slogan emphasizing tolerance and unity.
Tip / Use: Use when tempted to argue or impose your views.

One Drink is Too Many and a Thousand Not Enough

Explanation: Highlights the uncontrollable nature of alcohol once use begins.
History / Origin: Classic AA slogan.
Tip / Use: Use as a mantra for relapse prevention.

Don’t Drink, Don’t Die

Explanation: Direct reminder of the stakes; sobriety protects life.
History / Origin: Early meeting phrase; oral tradition.
Tip / Use: Repeat when cravings feel strong.

Remember Your Last Drunk

Explanation: Keep the memory of consequences fresh to motivate continued sobriety.
History / Origin: Common AA meeting slogan rooted in shared member experience.
Tip / Use: Reflect when feeling tempted or complacent.

Sobriety Delivers Everything Alcohol Promised

Explanation: Emphasizes that real life can be richer and more fulfilling than drinking ever was.
History / Origin: Meeting encouragement / oral tradition.
Tip / Use: Reflect on benefits gained since sobriety started.

Some Of Us Are Sicker Than Others

Explanation: A reminder that alcoholism affects people differently; humility is essential.
History / Origin: Early meeting observation; oral tradition.
Tip / Use: Respect others’ experiences without judgment.

Stick With The Winners

Explanation: Surround yourself with people who model sobriety and healthy recovery.
History / Origin: Popular meeting slogan emphasizing sponsorship and mentorship.
Tip / Use: Attend meetings regularly and seek guidance from experienced members.

Telephone Therapy

Explanation: Using calls to other members as a tool for support and accountability.
History / Origin: Meeting tradition; oral practice in early AA.
Tip / Use: Reach out to sponsors or friends before a high-risk situation.

The First Drink Gets You Drunk

Explanation: Alcoholism begins with the first drink; avoiding that first drink is the key to staying sober.
History / Origin: Widely repeated AA slogan reflecting the loss of control described in AA literature.
Tip / Use: Focus on avoiding the first drink rather than worrying about future consequences.

Stay In The Moment

Explanation: Focus on what’s happening now, not past regrets or future worries.
History / Origin: Common oral tradition among AA members.
Tip / Use: Use mindfulness to ground yourself.

To Thine Own Self Be True

Explanation: Encourages honesty and self-reflection in recovery.
History / Origin: Shakespearean origin; used in AA as a reminder for integrity.
Tip / Use: Evaluate your motivations and behaviors daily.

Willingness Is The Key

Explanation: Recovery requires an open mind and willingness to change.
History / Origin: Core AA principle, emphasized in Step 3 and Step 5 work.
Tip / Use: Approach challenges and suggestions with readiness to act.

Keep it Simple

Explanation: Focus on essentials; avoid overcomplicating life or recovery.
History / Origin: Common AA guidance and Big Book culture.
Tip / Use: Use when thinking spirals or overthinking sets in.

Don’t Quit Before the Miracle Happens

Explanation: Encourages perseverance in recovery, even when progress feels slow.
History / Origin: Longstanding AA slogan heard frequently in meetings.
Tip / Use: Remember this when sobriety feels discouraging or difficult.

One Step At A Time

Explanation: Break challenges into small, manageable actions.
History / Origin: Oral tradition from early AA step work.
Tip / Use: Apply to tasks or emotional recovery one move at a time.

Fear Is A Liar

Explanation: Many fears are exaggerated or false; don’t let them control action.
History / Origin: Traditional AA meeting phrase.
Tip / Use: Name your fear and challenge it logically.

Control The Controllable

Explanation: Focus only on what you can influence; release the rest.
History / Origin: AA meeting guidance.
Tip / Use: Make a short list of what is actually in your power.

Mind The Moment

Explanation: Stay present; avoid ruminating on the past or worrying about the future.
History / Origin: AA culture and oral tradition.
Tip / Use: Use when anxious thoughts arise.

Don’t Take Yourself Too Seriously

Explanation: Humor and humility help reduce stress and ego-based reactions.
History / Origin: Rule 62, AA tradition.
Tip / Use: Pause and laugh at your mistakes when appropriate.

Pray, Think, Then Act

Explanation: Check in with your higher power and reason before responding.
History / Origin: AA guidance from Step work and meeting culture.
Tip / Use: Use when decisions feel emotional or impulsive.

This Too Shall Pass

Observe, Don’t Absorb

Explanation: Witness emotional or conflict situations without internalizing all of it.
History / Origin: AA meeting teaching.
Tip / Use: Helpful in tense group settings.

Progress Not Perfection

Explanation: Witness emotional or conflict situations without internalizing all of it.
History / Origin: AA meeting teaching.
Tip / Use: Helpful in tense group settings.

Don’t Self-Punish

Explanation: Avoid guilt loops; learn and move forward.
History / Origin: AA step work principle.
Tip / Use: Write down lessons instead of berating yourself.

What Would Love Do?

Explanation: Let love guide your actions rather than fear or anger.
History / Origin: Common AA cultural guidance.
Tip / Use: Pause and reflect before acting in conflict.

Pause First

Explanation: Taking a moment before reacting helps avoid impulsive or harmful decisions.
History / Origin: Inspired by guidance in the Big Book about pausing when agitated or doubtful.
Tip / Use: Count to ten, breathe, or step away before responding.

Don’t Drink, Don’t Die

Explanation: Repeated mantra; emotional grounding in crisis.
History / Origin: Oral tradition, early meetings.
Tip / Use: Say it quietly when cravings or stress peak.

Stay In The Moment

Explanation: Focus on what’s happening now, not past regrets or future worries.
History / Origin: Common oral tradition among AA members.
Tip / Use: Use mindfulness to ground yourself.

When All Else Fails, Follow Directions

Explanation: Trust the program and the guidance of those who have walked the path before.
History / Origin: AA meeting slogan reflecting reliance on the steps and sponsorship.
Tip / Use: When confused, simply follow the suggestions given in recovery.

HOW

Honest. Open-minded. Wiling.
Explanation: Three essential attitudes for beginning and continuing recovery: honesty with yourself, openness to new ideas and experiences, and willingness to take action.
History / Origin: Common AA acronym used in meetings and step work to summarize the mindset needed for recovery.
Tip / Use: When you feel stuck in the program, check these three: Am I being honest? Am I open to guidance? Am I willing to take the next action?

FEAR

False Evidence Appearing Real
Face Everything And Recover
Forget Everything And Run
Forgetting Everything’s All Right
Explanation: Reminds members that most fears are illusions or exaggerated.
History / Origin: Common meeting teaching; oral tradition.
Tip / Use: Challenge fearful thoughts logically.

IGR/GSR

General Service Representative or Intergroup Representative
Explanation: Member representing a group in district/area service.
History / Origin: AA service structure; official term.
Tip / Use: Learn responsibilities to participate in service.

DCM

District Committee Member
Explanation: Serves multiple groups in a district; facilitates communication.
History / Origin: AA service structure; official role.
Tip / Use: Attend district meetings and support GSRs.

Big Book

Explanation: Shorthand for Alcoholics Anonymous, the foundational text.
History / Origin: Published 1939; core reference for recovery.
Tip / Use: Reference for guidance and study.

12&12 or 12×12

Explanation: Shorthand for Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions book. History / Origin: Published 1953; details step and tradition principles.
Tip / Use: Use in study, meetings, or sponsorship.

Responsiblity Statement

Explanation: “I am responsible. When anyone, anywhere, reaches out for help, I want the hand of AA always to be there.”
History / Origin: Adopted at 1965 International AA Convention.
Tip / Use: Recite or reflect daily to reinforce accountability.

Declaration Of Unity

Explanation: A statement reminding members that the strength of AA depends on unity and cooperation among its groups and members.
History / Origin: Adopted at the 1965 International Convention of Alcoholics Anonymous in Toronto and widely used in meetings and service work.
Tip / Use: Reflect on it during group discussions or service decisions to keep the focus on unity and the common purpose of helping the still-suffering alcoholic.

NUTS

Not Using The Steps
Explanation: When recovery feels chaotic, it often means we have stopped practicing the program.
History / Origin: Common recovery acronym in sponsorship and step work.
Tip / Use: If life feels “nuts,” return to meetings, steps, and service.

Preamble

Explanation: A short statement that explains what Alcoholics Anonymous is, who it is for, and the primary purpose of the fellowship.
History / Origin: First written in 1947 for AA Grapevine and later adopted widely by AA groups to be read at the beginning of meetings.
Tip / Use: Listen for it at the start of meetings as a reminder of AA’s purpose: helping alcoholics achieve and maintain sobriety through mutual support.

THINK

Explanation: A guide for speaking and acting thoughtfully.
History / Origin: Common recovery acronym used in meetings and service work.
Tip / Use: Apply before speaking, especially during emotional conversations.

WAIT

Why Am I Talking?
Explanation: A guide for speaking and acting thoughtfully.
History / Origin: Common recovery acronym used in meetings and service work.
Tip / Use: Apply before speaking, especially during emotional conversations.

We Keep What We Have by Giving It Away

Explanation: Sobriety is maintained by helping others in their recovery.
History / Origin: Big Book, “Working with Others.” Early members learned staying sober depended on service.
Tip / Use: Sponsor a newcomer, volunteer at a meeting, or carry the message in small ways.

I Am Responsible

Explanation: Personal accountability in recovery.
History / Origin: Responsibility Declaration, 1965 International Convention.
Tip / Use: Repeat in meetings or personal reflection; take ownership of actions.

Declaration Of Unity

Explanation: A formal statement emphasizing group cohesion and shared responsibility.
History / Origin: Adopted in AA to guide group decisions and service.
Tip / Use: Recite or reflect to reinforce group commitment.

If You Turn It Over and Don’t Let Go, You Will Be Upside Down

Explanation: True surrender requires release; holding on blocks growth.
History / Origin: AA oral tradition; reflects Step 3 principle.
Tip / Use: Practice surrender and trust in guidance or higher power.

Keep Coming Back (KCB)

Explanation: Perseverance in attending meetings builds strong recovery.
History / Origin: Classic AA slogan.
Tip / Use: Attend meetings consistently, even when motivation is low.

Letting Go Of Old Ideas

Explanation: Openness is required to progress spiritually and personally.
History / Origin: Oral AA guidance; linked to Step 6 & 7 work.
Tip / Use: Challenge outdated habits, beliefs, or resentments.

More Will Be Revealed

Explanation: Encourages patience and trust in spiritual guidance.
History / Origin: AA saying, popularized in early conventions and meetings.
Tip / Use: Apply when solutions or clarity aren’t immediate.

Service Keeps Us Sober

Explanation: Active participation protects against self-centeredness and relapse.
History / Origin: AA meeting guidance, Big Book culture.
Tip / Use: Chair a meeting, make coffee, or assist newcomers.

Principles Before Personalities

Explanation: Focus on the program, not interpersonal conflicts.
History / Origin: Tradition 12; guiding principle in service.
Tip / Use: When disagreements arise, defer to AA principles.

Carrying The Message

Explanation: Helping others is a central tool for recovery.
History / Origin: Big Book guidance on sponsorship and service.
Tip / Use: Reach out to newcomers or participate in service work.

Show Up, Stay Humble

Explanation: Consistent presence and humility foster group strength and personal growth.
History / Origin: Oral tradition in AA meetings.
Tip / Use: Volunteer consistently without seeking recognition.

Do The Next Right Thing

Explanation: Focus on immediate action rather than overthinking.
History / Origin: Meeting culture, step work guidance.
Tip / Use: When unsure, ask, “What’s the next responsible action?”

Roots Before Blooms

Explanation: Solid foundations in personal responsibility come before visible achievements.
History / Origin: Original quote for your circle.
Tip / Use: Reflect on foundational habits before ambitious goals.

Volunteer, Don’t Wait

Explanation: Service opportunities sustain recovery; don’t wait for someone else.
History / Origin: AA oral tradition.
Tip / Use: Sign up for any small task in meetings or events.

Be The Hand You Needed

Explanation: Offer the support you wished you had when you started.
History / Origin: AA cultural teaching, meeting guidance.
Tip / Use: Mentor, sponsor, or check in on newcomers.

Service is Love with Sleeves Rolled Up

Explanation: Action demonstrates commitment and care.
History / Origin: Original quote.
Tip / Use: Take tangible action, no matter how small.

Service Is Gratitude in Action

Explanation: Acts of service are a way to express appreciation for the gift of sobriety.
History / Origin: Common AA service phrase used in group discussions.
Tip / Use: Take on service commitments as part of maintaining recovery.

Responsibility Over Ego

Explanation: Humility and accountability sustain personal and group recovery.
History / Origin: AA principle reflected in service work.
Tip / Use: Step aside when ego conflicts arise; focus on the group.

When All Else Fails, Follow Directions

Explanation: Practical guidance to rely on trusted AA guidance and steps.
History / Origin: Oral meeting tradition.
Tip / Use: Use sponsor, literature, or step instructions when in doubt.

Look For The Similarities, Not The Diffferences

Explanation: Focus on common ground to maintain group unity.
History / Origin: AA oral tradition; meeting guidance.
Tip / Use: Practice empathy and understanding in meetings and service.

Take the Cotton Out of Your Ears and Put It in Your Mouth

Explanation: Listen actively and apply what you hear; don’t just talk or ignore guidance.
History / Origin: Humorous AA oral tradition.
Tip / Use: Apply advice and guidance, not just hear it.

To Keep It, You Have To Give It Away

Explanation: Service and sharing recovery strengthens your own sobriety.
History / Origin: From AA principle “you cannot keep what you have unless you give it away.”
Tip / Use: Volunteer or sponsor to reinforce your own recovery.

THINK

Explanation: Reminds members to consider if thoughts or actions are True, Helpful, Inspiring, Necessary, Kind… before speaking or acting.
History / Origin: Meeting tradition / mnemonic.
Tip / Use: Pause and evaluate your choices in group or personal decisions.

You Can’t Give Away What You Don’t Have

Explanation: Personal work comes before service; you must maintain your own sobriety.
History / Origin: AA teaching / oral tradition.
Tip / Use: Prioritize your recovery before volunteering to help others.

You’re Responsible for the Effort, Not the Outcome

Explanation: Focus on doing your best in service, not controlling results.
History / Origin: AA teaching from Steps 11 and 12.
Tip / Use: Give your energy fully without attaching to results.

Be as Enthusiastic About AA as You Were About Your Drinking

Explanation: Channel past energy into recovery and service.
History / Origin: AA oral tradition; motivational meeting guidance.
Tip / Use: Participate fully in meetings, steps, and service activities.

Together We Can

Explanation: Sobriety and problem-solving are easier with community support.
History / Origin: AA cultural slogan.
Tip / Use: Attend meetings and share openly.

The Group Conscience Is Our Guide

Explanation: Decisions are made collectively, emphasizing unity over personal preference.
History / Origin: AA Traditions 2 & 4.
Tip / Use: Participate in group discussions and service votes.

We Are Not Alone

Explanation: Recovery is shared; isolation is dangerous.
History / Origin: Big Book principle, early AA meetings.
Tip / Use: Reach out to sponsors, peers, or newcomers when struggling.

United In Sobriety

Explanation: Shared commitment strengthens bonds and accountability.
History / Origin: AA culture, oral tradition.
Tip / Use: Attend meetings regularly; be present.

Connection Cures Isolation

Explanation: Seek fellowship and guidance instead of retreating alone.
History / Origin: AA principle for emotional sobriety.
Tip / Use: Call a fellow member when cravings or stress arise.

Every Member Counts

Explanation: Each person contributes to the group’s strength and recovery.
History / Origin: AA meeting guidance.
Tip / Use: Participate actively, even in small ways.

Every Member Counts

Explanation: Each person contributes to the group’s strength and recovery.
History / Origin: AA meeting guidance.
Tip / Use: Participate actively, even in small ways.

Every Member Counts

Explanation: Perseverance in attending meetings builds strong recovery.
History / Origin: Classic AA slogan.
Tip / Use: Attend meetings consistently, even when motivation is low.

Keep Coming Back (KCB)

Explanation: Perseverance in attending meetings builds strong recovery.
History / Origin: Classic AA slogan.
Tip / Use: Attend meetings consistently, even when motivation is low.

Shoulder To Shoulder

Explanation: Support each other through shared challenges.
History / Origin: Common AA meeting phrase.
Tip / Use: Pair up with others in sponsorship or service.

Strength In Numbers

Explanation: Collective support makes recovery manageable.
History / Origin: Oral tradition in early AA meetings.
Tip / Use: Join group activities, service, or discussions.

Fellowship First

Explanation: Group connection is vital; relationships sustain sobriety.
History / Origin: AA culture.
Tip / Use: Attend gatherings even when you feel “fine.”

Respect All, Judge None

Explanation: Tolerance and acceptance prevent conflict and isolation.
History / Origin: Tradition 9 principle.
Tip / Use: Listen without criticism.

Bloom Because Someone Stayed

Explanation: Our growth is built on the perseverance of those who came before.
History / Origin: Original quote.
Tip / Use: Reflect on mentorship and past contributions.

Look for the Similarities, Not the Differences

Explanation: Focus on common ground to maintain group unity.
History / Origin: AA oral tradition; meeting guidance.
Tip / Use: Practice empathy and understanding in meetings and service.

Love And Tolerance Is Our Code

Explanation: Practice acceptance and compassion in all interactions.
History / Origin: Tradition 9.
Tip / Use: Practice empathy in difficult group interactions.

Anonymity Is Half Our Name

Explanation: Protecting members’ identities maintains safety and trust in the group.
History / Origin: Oral tradition emphasized in early AA meetings and reinforced in Tradition 11.
Tip / Use: Keep member identities confidential both in and outside meetings.

AA Works If You Work It

Explanation: Active participation in AA is essential for personal recovery.
History / Origin: Popular meeting slogan; reflects the Big Book philosophy of action and commitment.
Tip / Use: Attend meetings, do step work, sponsor or support newcomers.

It’s In The Book

Explanation: The Big Book contains guidance and solutions for recovery.
History / Origin: Frequently used by members in meetings; oral tradition.
Tip / Use: Reference the Big Book when seeking guidance or sharing with newcomers.

We Carry the Message, Not the Alcoholic

Explanation: Focus on support without taking on someone else’s responsibility.
History / Origin: Emphasizes Tradition 5 principle; oral tradition.
Tip / Use: Offer guidance, not control; let the program do the work.

United We Stand, Divided We Stagger

Explanation: Group unity protects the fellowship and recovery of members.
History / Origin: Meeting proverb; reflects core group principle.
Tip / Use: Encourage consensus and cooperation in meetings.

Keep An Open Mind

Explanation: Stay willing to consider ideas and perspectives beyond your own.
History / Origin: Oral tradition; frequently mentioned in step work discussions.
Tip / Use: Listen actively in meetings without immediate judgment.

Take What You Can Use and Leave the Rest

Explanation: Each member applies recovery tools that work for them.
History / Origin: Common AA meeting guidance; oral tradition.
Tip / Use: Apply helpful suggestions and leave the rest.

If It Works, Don’t Fix It

Explanation: Don’t change recovery practices that are effective.
History / Origin: Meeting culture; oral tradition.
Tip / Use: Follow guidance that has proven helpful in your experience.

Expect Miracles

Explanation: Recovery can bring unexpected positive changes.
History / Origin: Common meeting phrase; oral tradition.
Tip / Use: Stay hopeful during difficult periods.

We Are Only as Sick as Our Secrets

Explanation: Honesty and openness are crucial for personal and group recovery.
History / Origin: Early AA principle; oral tradition.
Tip / Use: Practice sharing honestly in meetings and sponsorship.

Let It Begin With Me

Explanation: Personal responsibility is the starting point for change.
History / Origin: Oral tradition; commonly used in service and group guidance.
Tip / Use: Focus on your own recovery and contributions before trying to change others.

Keep Right Sized

Explanation: Stay humble and balanced; don’t let ego dominate.
History / Origin: Oral tradition; guidance in group culture.
Tip / Use: Reflect on humility and perspective before acting.